What is the resting level of oxygen consumption referred to as?

The resting level of oxygen consumption is referred to as 1.0 MET, which stands for "Metabolic Equivalent of Task." MET is a unit that represents the energy cost of physical activities as a multiple of the resting metabolic rate. At rest, the average individual consumes approximately 3.5 mL of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute, which is the equivalent of 1.0 MET. This standard is widely used in exercise physiology to quantify the intensity of various activities relative to the resting state.

Understanding this concept is crucial for personal trainers, as it helps them gauge the intensity of exercises and ensure that client workouts are appropriately calibrated to their fitness levels. By knowing that 1.0 MET reflects a resting state, trainers can more accurately create and modify exercise programs based on their clients' energy expenditure during different activities.